CATEGORY 1: Clean Water
Water that escapes from a clean and sanitary source such as faucets, toilet tanks, and drinking fountains. However, Category 1 can quickly degrade into Category 2 if not dealt with right away.
CATEGORY 2: Grey Water
Commonly known as grey water, this describes water that is contaminated with chemical, physical, or biological elements or water that travels through another material, such as insulation or drywall, which may cause illnesses.
CATEGORY 3: Black Water
Water that contains significant pathogens and is grossly unsanitary. It could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Also called “black water”.
Category 3 water includes:
- sewer backups,
- flooding from rivers or streams,
- toilet overflows, and
- stagnant liquid that has begun to support bacterial growth.
Classes of Water Damage
The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.
Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation.
Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage.
Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture.
Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.
WHAT IS BLACK WATER AND WHAT SHOULD I DO ABOUT IT?
- Do not run water or use toilets in affected and unaffected areas until the source of the blockage can be identified and corrected.
- Stop up all drain openings to limit the chances of further backup. Additional pressure may be needed to be applied to keep openings sealed.
- Block toilets with rags or a mop if possible.
- Stay away from affected areas so contamination doesn’t spread.
- If you absolutely have to occupy contaminated areas, wear rubber boots and gloves.
- Power down central heating or air conditioning units and cover vents in the affected areas until they can be looked at.
- Leave contaminated items in affected areas and do not take them to clean areas.
- Collect contaminated garments and place them in a container or garbage bag.
- Don’t attempt to clean anything that may have come into contact with contaminated water.
- Completely avoid any water that appears contaminated and wash immediately if you think that you may have gotten in contact with contaminated water.
- Do not spread contaminated water to unaffected areas.
- If breakers are safely accessible, turn off power in affected areas.
- If the source of the water intrusion can be determined, use the shut-off valve to stop the flow.
If you experience or your business experiences a water loss or water damage, call us first, ServiceMaster by LoveJoy is the leading water removal and restoration company in Atlanta, Georgia
